AllFreeNovel
Share Us
He assumes I’m still in contact with Zane, that even without cell service he’s somehow keeping in touch.
Nope.
“But the military did give him the message, right?” I ask.
“They said they did. They said he was on his way home. But I haven’t heard a word from him.”
“I’ll send him a text. But I can’t guarantee he’ll receive it.”
“Thank you. You’re more than welcome to attend the service tomorrow. My father liked you.”
Zane will need support—and I want to see him. “I’ll be there.”
“I appreciate that. It’s been a tough couple of days.”
I’m only thinking of Zane when Ryker lost his father as well. It’s not a time to hold grudges. “I’m so sorry for your loss.” So trite, but I don’t know what else to say.
He takes out a business card and jots down the address of the cemetery. Huh. Another business card from Ryker. I’m so lucky.
“Graveside services only.” Ryker pinches his nose to control his emotions. “I’d better go. Lots to do.”
He leaves in a hurry, not even giving Artie a last glance.
Or me.
I know he’s mourning and distracted.
But I can’t help myself. I say to the thin air, “My hand, you ask? It’s healing, but I might never play the piano again. No worries, it was only my lifelong dream, no big deal.” I let out a fake, fluttery laugh.
“Pain? Hey, on a scale of one to ten, it’s only an eight. Hardly hurts at all.” I wave my good hand in the air.
“Oh please, stop apologizing, I forgive you for slamming that heavy door on my hand. I know it was an accident, don’t give it a second thought.” I manage a fake smile.
“By the way, thanks for exposing Zane’s true colors. He was only the love of my life. It didn’t really hurt all that much.”
Artie looks at me with his huge dark eyes. He whines as though he’s expressing sympathy.
“It doesn’t matter, does it, Articus? We don’t believe that brute. We still love Zane. Even if we do require an explanation.”
I collapse onto the couch, holding Artie close. The Great Big Dark tries to take over, but I keep him at bay.
Only just.
chapter twenty-nine
~
I ARRIVE ATthe cemetery early. It’s a beautiful resting place. The perfectly manicured grass is a vibrant green and the entire area is dotted with mature trees.
My eyes search the area for Zane. I don’t see him.
I texted him last night. I debated over what to say, how many details to include. In the end, I kept it simple.
Me:So, so sorry about your father. Funeral service is at two PM.
I don’t know if he received it. I haven’t heard back. I hope he’ll be able to make it home in time. He would be devastated if they held the service without him.
A crowd has already gathered at the graveside, quietly visiting and taking turns to sign an elegant guestbook. Soft organ music plays from a hidden device.
